Buglioni avoiding complacency in stand-in Castaneda clash

Frank Buglioni’s hopes of lifting a world title were put on hold when reigning super-middleweight champion Fedor Chudinov pulled out of their scheduled bout due to a broken nose, with the Londoner now facing stand-in Fernando Castaneda.

The 26-year-old’s shot at the title has been out off until Autumn as his Russian opponent continues a comeback from the sustained injury, but the immediate target is Mexican Castaneda, who has lost three of his last five contests.

Despite such a seemingly underwhelming stand-in counterpart, Buglioni, who has only ever been overcome once in his professional career, isn’t taking anything for granted and wants a strong showing (odds-on 1/33 to win).

“This is a crucial fight for me and I know that I have to perform in style and win,” Buglioni stated.

“Whilst it’s disappointing that it’s not Chudinov in front of me, Castaneda is a game, strong, fighter and I believe he’s also done plenty of sparring with Saul Alavarez, so he’ll know his way around the ring.

“Of course being a Mexican he’s going to be a tough opponent and will take some wearing down, but I’ve trained hard for Chudinov and I’ve got to take out all my built up frustration on someone so Castaneda is going to get it.

“He’s the final hurdle I have to overcome until I get to Chudinov later this year. I’m looking to put on a professional performance and come through victorious and then focus on Chudinov.”